Whenever anybody finds out that I write, they ask me this question without fail. I always struggle to find an answer, at least a good answer. I recently applied for something and was asked to describe my work as part of the application process. I almost didn't apply because of it, but with a little thought here is what I came up with:
The work I produce comes from what I know. Not to say I have the ultimate life worthy of poetry, but my experiences coupled with imagination and a manipulation of language and actually text culminate into a finished piece. Because I am an everyday individual with everyday experiences, I tend to write in everyday language, language that is easily accessible to most if not all. I attempt to portray my experience as not only my own experience, but also a human experience, at least the humans that come across my work. Poetry, as the intimate act that it is, can easily become self-centered. I try to steer clear of focusing on experiences as they relate to me but as I perceive them being related to everyone. It is a bit daunting to set out with this in mind but I embrace the challenge.
I am currently near the completion of my chapbook, which I hope to title In a Pleasant Voice. The title comes from the hopes that if or when it is encountered, the voice that speaks to the reader is pleasant. Whatever voice they might hear, since we don’t all hear the same voice, is pleasant to them. This will make it easier for the reader to digest the works, if they welcome the voice. Giving it this title will hopefully induce a pleasant voice from the outset.
I am certain that I have left some things out and as my work eveloves this will read totally different, but for now this is what it is.
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